Ni-hao! This is "Trial By Fire."
Everyone is still feeling the affects of Callie's actions on the rooftop. Has irreparable damage been done to Callie and Feral's 'relationship'? Who will be waiting in the wings to pick up the pieces? Also, Naomi faces off against Ross in the dismissal hearing. Will she manage to win?
Author's notes: This is a tweener chapter. I can them this because it sets up action for later chapters.
Legal terms confusing you? E-mail me and let me know. I was a Criminal Justice minor, so I may have went overboard.
Special thanks to KS Claw for 'Story Rping' with me a lot. We do this for other stories, but some of my best lines or ideas come from those sessions. Thanks again.
I also like to thank Renee Twist for her 'deep reviews'. Sorry for taking so long to e-mail you! But you and Timmy give great ideas also.
Thanks to Alegna (of course) and all of my reviewers as well!
As always, send any comments or questions to AkaneKitty@aol.com.
Ja ne,
AkaneKitty
***********
Silent Justice:
Trial By Fire
***********
"Ouch! Man that smarts... This is what I get for nearly bearing my soul to her?"
Feral walks down the stairs from the bank's roof, still rubbing his cheek. He sighs.
"I wonder what I would have got if I *really* told her what I was feeling...a punch perhaps?" Feral thinks aloud. "But, my instincts were right..."
"...They've won."
******************************************************************
"I'm a selfish Queen, huh..."
Callie looks over the roof's railing to look out over the city. She takes her glasses off, wiping a few tears from her eyes.
"Just...what does he mean?"
Before she could think about it any further, Callie hears the roar of jet engines approaching. She looks up, and sees the TurboKat landing on the roof. T-Bone kills the engines.
"Sorry we're late, Ms. Briggs." T-Bone hops out of the cockpit. "Enforcer radio traffic is getting harder and harder to listen to."
"The Enforcers must be encrypting their signals..." Razor also hops of the cockpit, and then notices a Callie wiping away a few last tears. "Ms. Briggs? Is everything okay?"
"I'll be fine." Callie turns away and puts her glasses back on.
T-Bone looks at her. "Ms. Briggs..."
Callie turns back around to look at them. "Do you...Do you think I'm selfish?"
"Selfish? You're anything but!" Razor says. "But...why would you think that?"
"...Feral thinks I am."
"*Feral?*" T-Bone spits out. "Is he the cause of this?"
"T-Bone! Calm down!" Razor says just loud enough where T-Bone could hear. The yellow kat ignores him.
"We had words earlier." Callie explains. "But, it's nothing."
"Like hell it isn't."
"T-Bone!"
T-Bone turns around and heads towards the roof access door, forcing Callie and Razor to follow him.
***************************************************************
"Are we almost finished here, Major?"
"Umm...Yes, sir. We are just packing up."
"Good. I want to leave as soon as possible. I heard the SWAT Kat's jet."
Marie nods slowly as Feral walks through the crime scene. Everyone, especially Naomi, noticed the bright red mark on his face, and his sour mood. Leo, who was unplugging his laptop, leans in close to Felina.
"What do you think happened up there?" Leo whispers.
"I don't know, but we'd better get out of here fast." Felina replies, helping him. "Adding the SWAT Kats to this mix will be explosive."
The sound of slamming door is heard, and multiple footsteps follow it. "Too late."
"T-Bone, don't do this!" Razor pleads, but it doesn't get through. T-Bone main target was Feral.
"What is it, clown?" Feral asks, keeping his back to the entourage. T-Bone walks right up to him.
"What's the matter, Feral? Having no luck with the ladies?"
Feral barely acknowledges him, but clenches his paws. "What do you mean?"
T-Bone points to Callie, who was still visibly upset. "You must be an awfully big kat to make a she-kat cry!"
T-Bone wasn't expecting it, but the next thing he felt was Feral's clenched paw connecting with his face. He gets knocked of his feet, and lands on the floor.
"Feral!" Callie goes to T-Bone's aid. The kat was still dazed. "What's your problem?"
"Always running to their defense..." Feral says softly. Callie just looks at him.
"You win, SWAT Kats." Feral turns around. "You can have her."
Feral begins to walks away, and Callie anger resurfaces. " No one can 'have' me, *Ulysses*!"
Feral pauses, and glances back at her. "Get over yourself, Callie."
Callie glares at him. Feral clears his throat.
"For the record, the Enforcers will not be reporting to the Mayor's office anymore. So if you have a problem with that, I suggest you initiate steps to have me removed as Commander."
Callie bites her tongue. Feral turns to his Enforcers.
"Return to headquarters as soon as you're done!" Feral orders as he heads out the door.
"Yes, sir!"
The Enforcers begin to clear out, and T-Bone rubs his jaw.
"What was that all about?" Razor asks.
Callie busies herself tending to T-Bone. "I guess we're on a first name basis again."
Naomi waits until the last Enforcers leave. "You know, I just realized something."
"That you're an annoying bimbo?" Callie says, which gets a small chuckle from the SWAT Kats.
"Hardly." Naomi smiles. "That this case is all about you!"
"What do you mean?"
"This isn't about the Enforcers not doing their job, or the SWAT Kats saving the day, it's all about where your loyalties lie." Naomi causally tosses her hair over her shoulder. "Just think about what the scene would have been like if you actually sided with the Enforcers...not that you'll do it in this lifetime."
Callie stands up to confront Naomi. "I'm so sick of your attitude!"
"And I'm sick of yours!" Naomi doesn't miss a beat. "You know, all this power you have has given you a swelled head. If you had thought objectively for once, I wouldn't be in the position of justifying an illegal action!"
"So this is all my fault?"
"Basically. You brought this on yourself. And now I have to save your tail in the eyes of the law. So why don't you me and the rest of us that actually follow the law a favor by cutting your ties to the SWAT Kats before I go into court?" Naomi turns and walks away. "Maybe then I can save this mess of a case."
**************************************************************
The next day...
Callie sits at her desk, trying to find someway to explain to Manx why she was cut out of Enforcer communication. Anything she was going to get was going to come from the DA's office. A knock on her office door breaks into her thoughts.
"Come in."
The door opens, and the tall figure of a black kat steps into the office. He wore glasses that hid his grey eyes, and wore a suit with a trench coat. He clears his throat.
"Ms. Briggs? I'm ADA Brendan Clarke." The kat walks up to Callie's desk. "I will be serving as your city attorney."
Callie looks at him. "Did you say ADA?"
"Yes." Brendan nods. "I also serve as Naomi's second chair."
Callie involuntary shudders. Brendan sighs a little. "She's not your favorite she-kat, huh?"
"How'd you guess?" Callie manages to smile. "Please sit down."
Brendan sits down, taking a moment to take off his glasses. "Please don't mind Naomi. This Edwards case has been stressing her."
"And she stresses everyone else."
"Naomi hates having to justify illegal actions. It damages her trial reputation." Brendan explains. "So she becomes a spitfire."
"So I see." Callie says. "But, I didn't mean to put you into the position of defending her."
"It's alright. Comes with the territory."
Callie laughs. Brendan smiles.
"It's nice to hear you laugh after all I've heard you'd gone through."
Callie blushes. "Umm...Thank you."
"But, to the business at paw," Brendan reaches into his briefcase,
"The city has several suits pending against it. Most involving MegaKat Towers."
"Yes. Breech of contract with potential renters."
"I wouldn't advise that the City settle at this point. What happened to the Tower's were beyond the City's control."
"Manx will be glad to hear that."
Brendan nods. "There are many other cases to discuss, but I must go serve some subpoenas. May I suggest we discuss this over lunch later?"
Callie is taken aback somewhat, but hands him her business card. "...Sure. Call me with a time."
Brendan smiles, standing up. "I will. Good day, Ms. Briggs."
*****************************************************************
"Something big went down at MegaKat Municipal Bank, Johnny. I just know it."
"How can you tell? The bank officials were being tight-lipped about the whole situation."
Ann stretches as she and Johnny sit in a semi quiet area of the District Attorney's office. They were waiting to interview Naomi.
"I know. But, I wasn't talking about them." Ann smiles. "I overheard some tellers talking about an incident between Callie, Feral, and the SWAT Kats."
"Sounds explosive." Johnny says, fiddling with his camera equipment.
"And, it is." Ann sits forward in her chair. "Apparently, the Commander and Callie went to the roof to discuss something. A few minutes later, Feral comes down with a big red mark on cheek. Callie and the SWAT Kats then come down, with the Deputy Mayor looking like she had been crying. Words were exchanged between the SWAT Kats and Feral...and T-Bone ends up getting punched! Feral leaves in a huff."
"Whoa! What I wouldn't give to film that scene!"
"I know! But the Enforcers are restricting press access to crime scenes now." Ann says. "Which means I have to rely on investigative reporting."
Johnny thinks for a moment. "But, Annie? Maybe it's something private that no one wants out there..."
"...Maybe." Ann goes quiet when Naomi's secretary walks up. "Yes?"
"Ms. Gora, ADA Ling can see you now."
"Thank you." Ann stands up. "Johnny, could you wait out here? I want to talk with her before she gets on camera."
"No problem."
***************************************************************
A few minutes a later, and Ann enters Naomi's office. The ADA rises to meet here.
"Thank you for your time, Ms. Ling." Ann says, shaking Naomi's paw.
"Please, call me Naomi." Naomi motions to Ann to take a seat. "So, what is this interview going to be about?"
"About the MKC vs. Kyle Edwards case, as well as the hackings." Ann settles into her seat and takes out a notepad.
"Well, I can't say much about the hackings, since the investigations are still pending. But, I can tell you about the Edwards case."
"Good." Ann scribbles some notes. "By the way, how is your relationship with the Mayor's office?"
Naomi smiles, and leans forward across her desk. "Do you mean the office, or Calico Briggs?"
"Just curious."
Naomi continues to smile. "Off the record?"
Ann nods, and Naomi sits back. "Yes, there is no love loss between the Deputy Mayor and I, but that due to certain conflicts."
"Like what?"
"She likes the SWAT Kats. I don't. Vigilantism is illegal, no matter how many times they saved the city." Naomi says. "And, do to her very obvious public stance regarding them, it puts me in the position of defending an illegal action to court. I hate that."
"Besides the thing that vigilantism is illegal, what makes you dislike the SWAT Kats?"
"Because I'm an ADA. I am charged with prosecuting criminals. I don't take kindly to kats who willing break the law." Naomi says. "Nothing personal, but that's how it is."
Ann decides to push the envelope a little. "What about the Commander?"
"What about him?"
"Isn't this whole conflict between the two of you has to deal with Feral as well?"
Naomi smiles again. "Well, let's just say someone isn't being honest with herself. And if she did, things would run a lot smoother."
Ann blinks at that. "Not being honest?"
"If she was, I'd have another competitor."
"*Another* competitor?"
"You did say this was about Feral, did you not?"
"I meant in the matters of the case."
"It's at the core of the case. Had she had more confidence in him...or given him more chance...we wouldn't be discussing this right now."
Ann ponders this. "You certainly created a firestorm..."
"Me?" Naomi laughs. "Please! If it wasn't me, it was going to be another equally matched she-kat."
"Her Honor needs to learn that you don't always get second chases...and I play for keeps."
*****************************************************************
"Ow! Feral can pack a punch!"
"You'd better be glad this is a light day!"
Chance holds some ice to his jaw as Jake does some routine work on a couple of cars. Chance was still in some pain.
"I hope he didn't break anything." Chance mumbles.
"Well, it's apparent he had some pent up anger."
"No kidding."
"I told you not to leap to conclusions, Chance."
Chance looks at his friend. "But, I do wonder what happened up there. Why did Feral call Callie selfish?"
"I don't know. But I wonder about the ADA's position towards us."
"Meaning?"
"She said she's going to have to defend an illegal action in court. I wonder why this defense hasn't been used before?"
Chance looks confused. "I don't get it."
"From my understanding of things, if the court sides with the defense, it will make it harder for criminals we catch to be tried." Jake says. "Which means there's nothing we could do to criminals except try to prevent crimes from happening. We couldn't drop them in the Enforcers' laps."
"...I see."
"All this because we have a link to Callie..." Jake mulls. "Government agents..."
"Well, we were Enforcers a long time ago." Chance says.
"Yeah...but, it seems like this defense should have been used a long time ago..." Jake says, as another car comes in. "But we can't worry about that now We're going to have to depend on Naomi...no matter how much it pains me to say it."
*************************************************************
"A single scoop chocolate waffle cone, please. With sprinkles!"
Naomi eyes the various ice cream flavors as the vendor fills her order.
"I'd go for a double if I wasn't worried..." Naomi muses aloud. "But, tradition mandates the single scoop before going into court..."
"A vanilla cone, please. Oh, and add her order to mine. I'm buying."
"Hmm?" Naomi turns towards the voice. "Oh! Hello, Ulysses."
"Hello yourself. Going into court?" Feral takes the cones and hands Naomi's hers.
'Yes. I was have a chocolate ice cream cone before going into court." Naomi takes a first lick of her cone. "A carry over from my Legal Aid days."
"I see." Feral says. "Are you too busy now?"
"No. I have some time. Why?"
Feral shrugs a little. "I just wanted some company for a while. Do you mind?"
"Of course not. Lead on."
Feral and Naomi walk along the trails in the park that lie beyond the courthouse, both enjoying their cones. It was silent for a while, until Naomi speaks up.
"So Ulysses..."
"Hmm?"
"What do you like in a she-kat?"
Feral is caught off guard somewhat. "Well, that's a sudden question."
"If you don't like it we can change the subject..." Naomi concentrates on her cone.
"No, it's okay." Feral think for a moment, enjoying his ice cream cone. "Hmm... Smart...understanding...supportive..."
Naomi nods, now beginning to eat the waffle cone.
"What about you? What do you like in a kat?" Feral asks, also beginning to eat the cone.
"Hmm...Something good looking...smart.... supportive..." Naomi says after a while.
"So, we have some things in common..."
"Yeah..."
"What made you bring it up?"
Naomi turns to him and smiles. "Nothing really...just curious."
"Curiosity killed the kat, counselor."
"So I've heard." Naomi continues to smile.
"By the way, I heard a certain ADA set off my headquarters' metal detectors the other day."
"Hmm? Oh yeah. That was my concealed weapon. Forgot to tell them about it." Naomi says. "But, I have my national license."
"You do know that MKC requires it's own permit." Feral says. "Otherwise..."
"...I'll get a citation. A Class C misdemeanor."
"Be sure you get that license. I don't want to be accused of preferential treatment."
"I will."
Feral concentrates on his cone for a moment. "So, why do you have a concealed weapon?"
"Piece of mind. I've been working with them since I was little." Naomi smiles a little. "Daddy wanted to make sure I could protect myself, and that I could use it properly."
"I see..."
"And, besides, it comes in handy when the bailiff in court is overpowered." Naomi says nonchalantly.
"Judges allow that?"
"Depends on the circumstances." Naomi then glances at her watch. "I'd better go. Have a judge that's a bit finicky."
"I wouldn't want to keep you, then." Feral starts to walk away. "Good luck, Naomi."
"Thanks." Naomi does a little wave. "I'll need it..."
***********************************************************
About ten minutes later, Naomi and Brendan were sitting in Judge Jackson's court, which was presiding over the Edwards case. Ross was there as well, looking through mounds of paperwork. Naomi sighs.
"Brendan, if you have an idea that might go over well, tell me." Naomi says.
"Sure." Brendan adjusts his glasses. "Nervous."
"Yeah...This can make or break politics in this city. I got to win this motion."
Brendan nods as the court clerk stands up. Afterwards, Judge Jackson enters the courtroom.
"All rise!" The clerk states, and all of the attorneys stand. "Court is now in session. The Honorable Judge Jackson presiding."
"Please be seated." Jackson settles behind the bench as everyone returns to their seats. "Ladies and gentlekats, I have read over your briefs. And, you have both made compelling arguments. But, I hesitate to make a snap judgment regarding this dismissal case due to the possible precedence it might set. However, I will hear both arguments today to see if a decision can be made. Ross?"
Ross rises from his chair and faces his platform. "Your Honor...as you can see from my motion, my client had his rights violated by the SWAT Kats. They, due to their link with the Deputy Mayor, are government agents, and must follow the law of search, seizure and arrest. And since they are government agents, they must follow the same rules the Enforcers have."
"Naomi?"
Naomi also rises from her chair. "Even if there is a link between the Deputy Mayor and the SWAT Kats, it was the Enforcers that made the arrest. They have made a case against Clarke on their own merits. Is it fair to punish the Enforcers for the outside actions of others? They have not asked for this 'help'."
"But they are benefiting from the SWAT Kats help. May I remind council of the term 'fruit of the poisonous tree'?"
"Which only applies if the Enforcers stepped beyond their bounds. Which they have not." Naomi retorts. "They don't even know about the actions of the SWAT Kats. They therefore cannot benefit from something they know nothing about."
"But, the SWAT Kats have been doing this before. It is common knowledge."
"Which I say again the Enforcers refuse to acknowledge! I further move that the Deputy Mayor was acting on her own, and was not in her official capacity. Therefore, the SWAT Kats are private katizens, not government agents."
Jackson raises an eyebrow at this. "You're saying the Deputy Mayor was not in her official capacity?"
"She has stepped beyond her role as a Deputy Mayor by conspiring with possible criminals." Naomi says. "Therefore, she cannot be in her elected role."
"Careful, counselor. You don't want to accuse the Deputy Mayor of a criminal act in open court." Jackson says. "But, I see your point."
"Your Honor..." Ross starts, but Jackson waves him off.
"Look...I haven't heard enough evidence to sway my decision either way." Jackson clasps his paws together. "So, I want a full hearing on this motion."
"The Katizens requests time to prepare for the hearing." Naomi speaks up.
"My client is entitled to a speedy trial." Ross protests.
"Please, counselor.... Your client is on bail. Any chance that this case might be dismissed would be in favor of him. And besides, you were the one that brought up this motion that can change how the SWAT Kats are viewed by the legal system." Jackson sighs. "Katizens request is granted. Court is in recess until a trial date is set."
Jackson slams the gavel down, and the court begins to clear out. Naomi sits back in her chair, exhausted.
"Nice save." Clarke says after a moment.
"Yeah...but Mau is still going to have a fit." Naomi sighs. "He wanted this off his desk. But, at least Judge Jackson didn't find in favor of Ross."
"So, what now?"
"You know what to do." Naomi smiles weakly. "Subpoenas, subpoenas, subpoenas."
Clarke nods. "Then we'd better serve the Deputy Mayor before Ross gets to her."
"Yeah...I'm going to enjoy this..."
"Umm..." Clarke adjusts his glasses. "Mind if I serve the Deputy Mayor?"
Naomi blinks. "You?"
"I *am* the city attorney. And, it might be best to have her being not so agitated."
"Meaning me, right?"
"Well..."
Naomi laughs. "Go ahead. It's going to be ugly in the courtroom, anyway."
"Good. So, I'll take the media subpoenas and you handle the Enforcer ones." Clarke says.
"Will do." Naomi picks up her briefcase. "Let's go!"
*****************************************************************
"Hey, Boss! I got that interview with Ling and a scoop or two..."
"Not now, Annie! We've just been hit with a subpoena!"
"Huh?"
Ann and Johnny step into a frantic newsroom as their boss darts around like he has his tail on fire. Ann chases after him.
"What do you mean we've been hit with a subpoena?" Ann finally catches up to him.
"The DA's office wants all our tapes, notes, and records that pertains to the Deputy Mayor, the SWAT Kats, and the Enforcers." The boss says, pausing to pick up a box. "And, they want it ASAP. Our collection of SWAT Kat material alone is over 500 tapes. 500!"
The boss moves off in a huff as Johnny walks up to Ann. "What's going on?"
"I'm guessing the DA's office is preparing for major battle." Ann crosses her arms. "And, if we got a subpoena, I bet the other stations got one, too! It's only a matter of time before this breaks for public consumption. This might be bad press for the SWAT Kats..."
"But, the SWAT Kats are well like by the public!"
"For now. And, as long as they were saving the day. But, the public is finicky." Ann says. "One false move, and they'll turn on you."
Johnny scratches his head. "True..."
"And, if the public feels that the SWAT Kats contributed to the current legal nightmare..."
"...We'll just see how forgiving and loyal the public can be..."
To be continued...
Everyone is still feeling the affects of Callie's actions on the rooftop. Has irreparable damage been done to Callie and Feral's 'relationship'? Who will be waiting in the wings to pick up the pieces? Also, Naomi faces off against Ross in the dismissal hearing. Will she manage to win?
Author's notes: This is a tweener chapter. I can them this because it sets up action for later chapters.
Legal terms confusing you? E-mail me and let me know. I was a Criminal Justice minor, so I may have went overboard.
Special thanks to KS Claw for 'Story Rping' with me a lot. We do this for other stories, but some of my best lines or ideas come from those sessions. Thanks again.
I also like to thank Renee Twist for her 'deep reviews'. Sorry for taking so long to e-mail you! But you and Timmy give great ideas also.
Thanks to Alegna (of course) and all of my reviewers as well!
As always, send any comments or questions to AkaneKitty@aol.com.
Ja ne,
AkaneKitty
***********
Silent Justice:
Trial By Fire
***********
"Ouch! Man that smarts... This is what I get for nearly bearing my soul to her?"
Feral walks down the stairs from the bank's roof, still rubbing his cheek. He sighs.
"I wonder what I would have got if I *really* told her what I was feeling...a punch perhaps?" Feral thinks aloud. "But, my instincts were right..."
"...They've won."
******************************************************************
"I'm a selfish Queen, huh..."
Callie looks over the roof's railing to look out over the city. She takes her glasses off, wiping a few tears from her eyes.
"Just...what does he mean?"
Before she could think about it any further, Callie hears the roar of jet engines approaching. She looks up, and sees the TurboKat landing on the roof. T-Bone kills the engines.
"Sorry we're late, Ms. Briggs." T-Bone hops out of the cockpit. "Enforcer radio traffic is getting harder and harder to listen to."
"The Enforcers must be encrypting their signals..." Razor also hops of the cockpit, and then notices a Callie wiping away a few last tears. "Ms. Briggs? Is everything okay?"
"I'll be fine." Callie turns away and puts her glasses back on.
T-Bone looks at her. "Ms. Briggs..."
Callie turns back around to look at them. "Do you...Do you think I'm selfish?"
"Selfish? You're anything but!" Razor says. "But...why would you think that?"
"...Feral thinks I am."
"*Feral?*" T-Bone spits out. "Is he the cause of this?"
"T-Bone! Calm down!" Razor says just loud enough where T-Bone could hear. The yellow kat ignores him.
"We had words earlier." Callie explains. "But, it's nothing."
"Like hell it isn't."
"T-Bone!"
T-Bone turns around and heads towards the roof access door, forcing Callie and Razor to follow him.
***************************************************************
"Are we almost finished here, Major?"
"Umm...Yes, sir. We are just packing up."
"Good. I want to leave as soon as possible. I heard the SWAT Kat's jet."
Marie nods slowly as Feral walks through the crime scene. Everyone, especially Naomi, noticed the bright red mark on his face, and his sour mood. Leo, who was unplugging his laptop, leans in close to Felina.
"What do you think happened up there?" Leo whispers.
"I don't know, but we'd better get out of here fast." Felina replies, helping him. "Adding the SWAT Kats to this mix will be explosive."
The sound of slamming door is heard, and multiple footsteps follow it. "Too late."
"T-Bone, don't do this!" Razor pleads, but it doesn't get through. T-Bone main target was Feral.
"What is it, clown?" Feral asks, keeping his back to the entourage. T-Bone walks right up to him.
"What's the matter, Feral? Having no luck with the ladies?"
Feral barely acknowledges him, but clenches his paws. "What do you mean?"
T-Bone points to Callie, who was still visibly upset. "You must be an awfully big kat to make a she-kat cry!"
T-Bone wasn't expecting it, but the next thing he felt was Feral's clenched paw connecting with his face. He gets knocked of his feet, and lands on the floor.
"Feral!" Callie goes to T-Bone's aid. The kat was still dazed. "What's your problem?"
"Always running to their defense..." Feral says softly. Callie just looks at him.
"You win, SWAT Kats." Feral turns around. "You can have her."
Feral begins to walks away, and Callie anger resurfaces. " No one can 'have' me, *Ulysses*!"
Feral pauses, and glances back at her. "Get over yourself, Callie."
Callie glares at him. Feral clears his throat.
"For the record, the Enforcers will not be reporting to the Mayor's office anymore. So if you have a problem with that, I suggest you initiate steps to have me removed as Commander."
Callie bites her tongue. Feral turns to his Enforcers.
"Return to headquarters as soon as you're done!" Feral orders as he heads out the door.
"Yes, sir!"
The Enforcers begin to clear out, and T-Bone rubs his jaw.
"What was that all about?" Razor asks.
Callie busies herself tending to T-Bone. "I guess we're on a first name basis again."
Naomi waits until the last Enforcers leave. "You know, I just realized something."
"That you're an annoying bimbo?" Callie says, which gets a small chuckle from the SWAT Kats.
"Hardly." Naomi smiles. "That this case is all about you!"
"What do you mean?"
"This isn't about the Enforcers not doing their job, or the SWAT Kats saving the day, it's all about where your loyalties lie." Naomi causally tosses her hair over her shoulder. "Just think about what the scene would have been like if you actually sided with the Enforcers...not that you'll do it in this lifetime."
Callie stands up to confront Naomi. "I'm so sick of your attitude!"
"And I'm sick of yours!" Naomi doesn't miss a beat. "You know, all this power you have has given you a swelled head. If you had thought objectively for once, I wouldn't be in the position of justifying an illegal action!"
"So this is all my fault?"
"Basically. You brought this on yourself. And now I have to save your tail in the eyes of the law. So why don't you me and the rest of us that actually follow the law a favor by cutting your ties to the SWAT Kats before I go into court?" Naomi turns and walks away. "Maybe then I can save this mess of a case."
**************************************************************
The next day...
Callie sits at her desk, trying to find someway to explain to Manx why she was cut out of Enforcer communication. Anything she was going to get was going to come from the DA's office. A knock on her office door breaks into her thoughts.
"Come in."
The door opens, and the tall figure of a black kat steps into the office. He wore glasses that hid his grey eyes, and wore a suit with a trench coat. He clears his throat.
"Ms. Briggs? I'm ADA Brendan Clarke." The kat walks up to Callie's desk. "I will be serving as your city attorney."
Callie looks at him. "Did you say ADA?"
"Yes." Brendan nods. "I also serve as Naomi's second chair."
Callie involuntary shudders. Brendan sighs a little. "She's not your favorite she-kat, huh?"
"How'd you guess?" Callie manages to smile. "Please sit down."
Brendan sits down, taking a moment to take off his glasses. "Please don't mind Naomi. This Edwards case has been stressing her."
"And she stresses everyone else."
"Naomi hates having to justify illegal actions. It damages her trial reputation." Brendan explains. "So she becomes a spitfire."
"So I see." Callie says. "But, I didn't mean to put you into the position of defending her."
"It's alright. Comes with the territory."
Callie laughs. Brendan smiles.
"It's nice to hear you laugh after all I've heard you'd gone through."
Callie blushes. "Umm...Thank you."
"But, to the business at paw," Brendan reaches into his briefcase,
"The city has several suits pending against it. Most involving MegaKat Towers."
"Yes. Breech of contract with potential renters."
"I wouldn't advise that the City settle at this point. What happened to the Tower's were beyond the City's control."
"Manx will be glad to hear that."
Brendan nods. "There are many other cases to discuss, but I must go serve some subpoenas. May I suggest we discuss this over lunch later?"
Callie is taken aback somewhat, but hands him her business card. "...Sure. Call me with a time."
Brendan smiles, standing up. "I will. Good day, Ms. Briggs."
*****************************************************************
"Something big went down at MegaKat Municipal Bank, Johnny. I just know it."
"How can you tell? The bank officials were being tight-lipped about the whole situation."
Ann stretches as she and Johnny sit in a semi quiet area of the District Attorney's office. They were waiting to interview Naomi.
"I know. But, I wasn't talking about them." Ann smiles. "I overheard some tellers talking about an incident between Callie, Feral, and the SWAT Kats."
"Sounds explosive." Johnny says, fiddling with his camera equipment.
"And, it is." Ann sits forward in her chair. "Apparently, the Commander and Callie went to the roof to discuss something. A few minutes later, Feral comes down with a big red mark on cheek. Callie and the SWAT Kats then come down, with the Deputy Mayor looking like she had been crying. Words were exchanged between the SWAT Kats and Feral...and T-Bone ends up getting punched! Feral leaves in a huff."
"Whoa! What I wouldn't give to film that scene!"
"I know! But the Enforcers are restricting press access to crime scenes now." Ann says. "Which means I have to rely on investigative reporting."
Johnny thinks for a moment. "But, Annie? Maybe it's something private that no one wants out there..."
"...Maybe." Ann goes quiet when Naomi's secretary walks up. "Yes?"
"Ms. Gora, ADA Ling can see you now."
"Thank you." Ann stands up. "Johnny, could you wait out here? I want to talk with her before she gets on camera."
"No problem."
***************************************************************
A few minutes a later, and Ann enters Naomi's office. The ADA rises to meet here.
"Thank you for your time, Ms. Ling." Ann says, shaking Naomi's paw.
"Please, call me Naomi." Naomi motions to Ann to take a seat. "So, what is this interview going to be about?"
"About the MKC vs. Kyle Edwards case, as well as the hackings." Ann settles into her seat and takes out a notepad.
"Well, I can't say much about the hackings, since the investigations are still pending. But, I can tell you about the Edwards case."
"Good." Ann scribbles some notes. "By the way, how is your relationship with the Mayor's office?"
Naomi smiles, and leans forward across her desk. "Do you mean the office, or Calico Briggs?"
"Just curious."
Naomi continues to smile. "Off the record?"
Ann nods, and Naomi sits back. "Yes, there is no love loss between the Deputy Mayor and I, but that due to certain conflicts."
"Like what?"
"She likes the SWAT Kats. I don't. Vigilantism is illegal, no matter how many times they saved the city." Naomi says. "And, do to her very obvious public stance regarding them, it puts me in the position of defending an illegal action to court. I hate that."
"Besides the thing that vigilantism is illegal, what makes you dislike the SWAT Kats?"
"Because I'm an ADA. I am charged with prosecuting criminals. I don't take kindly to kats who willing break the law." Naomi says. "Nothing personal, but that's how it is."
Ann decides to push the envelope a little. "What about the Commander?"
"What about him?"
"Isn't this whole conflict between the two of you has to deal with Feral as well?"
Naomi smiles again. "Well, let's just say someone isn't being honest with herself. And if she did, things would run a lot smoother."
Ann blinks at that. "Not being honest?"
"If she was, I'd have another competitor."
"*Another* competitor?"
"You did say this was about Feral, did you not?"
"I meant in the matters of the case."
"It's at the core of the case. Had she had more confidence in him...or given him more chance...we wouldn't be discussing this right now."
Ann ponders this. "You certainly created a firestorm..."
"Me?" Naomi laughs. "Please! If it wasn't me, it was going to be another equally matched she-kat."
"Her Honor needs to learn that you don't always get second chases...and I play for keeps."
*****************************************************************
"Ow! Feral can pack a punch!"
"You'd better be glad this is a light day!"
Chance holds some ice to his jaw as Jake does some routine work on a couple of cars. Chance was still in some pain.
"I hope he didn't break anything." Chance mumbles.
"Well, it's apparent he had some pent up anger."
"No kidding."
"I told you not to leap to conclusions, Chance."
Chance looks at his friend. "But, I do wonder what happened up there. Why did Feral call Callie selfish?"
"I don't know. But I wonder about the ADA's position towards us."
"Meaning?"
"She said she's going to have to defend an illegal action in court. I wonder why this defense hasn't been used before?"
Chance looks confused. "I don't get it."
"From my understanding of things, if the court sides with the defense, it will make it harder for criminals we catch to be tried." Jake says. "Which means there's nothing we could do to criminals except try to prevent crimes from happening. We couldn't drop them in the Enforcers' laps."
"...I see."
"All this because we have a link to Callie..." Jake mulls. "Government agents..."
"Well, we were Enforcers a long time ago." Chance says.
"Yeah...but, it seems like this defense should have been used a long time ago..." Jake says, as another car comes in. "But we can't worry about that now We're going to have to depend on Naomi...no matter how much it pains me to say it."
*************************************************************
"A single scoop chocolate waffle cone, please. With sprinkles!"
Naomi eyes the various ice cream flavors as the vendor fills her order.
"I'd go for a double if I wasn't worried..." Naomi muses aloud. "But, tradition mandates the single scoop before going into court..."
"A vanilla cone, please. Oh, and add her order to mine. I'm buying."
"Hmm?" Naomi turns towards the voice. "Oh! Hello, Ulysses."
"Hello yourself. Going into court?" Feral takes the cones and hands Naomi's hers.
'Yes. I was have a chocolate ice cream cone before going into court." Naomi takes a first lick of her cone. "A carry over from my Legal Aid days."
"I see." Feral says. "Are you too busy now?"
"No. I have some time. Why?"
Feral shrugs a little. "I just wanted some company for a while. Do you mind?"
"Of course not. Lead on."
Feral and Naomi walk along the trails in the park that lie beyond the courthouse, both enjoying their cones. It was silent for a while, until Naomi speaks up.
"So Ulysses..."
"Hmm?"
"What do you like in a she-kat?"
Feral is caught off guard somewhat. "Well, that's a sudden question."
"If you don't like it we can change the subject..." Naomi concentrates on her cone.
"No, it's okay." Feral think for a moment, enjoying his ice cream cone. "Hmm... Smart...understanding...supportive..."
Naomi nods, now beginning to eat the waffle cone.
"What about you? What do you like in a kat?" Feral asks, also beginning to eat the cone.
"Hmm...Something good looking...smart.... supportive..." Naomi says after a while.
"So, we have some things in common..."
"Yeah..."
"What made you bring it up?"
Naomi turns to him and smiles. "Nothing really...just curious."
"Curiosity killed the kat, counselor."
"So I've heard." Naomi continues to smile.
"By the way, I heard a certain ADA set off my headquarters' metal detectors the other day."
"Hmm? Oh yeah. That was my concealed weapon. Forgot to tell them about it." Naomi says. "But, I have my national license."
"You do know that MKC requires it's own permit." Feral says. "Otherwise..."
"...I'll get a citation. A Class C misdemeanor."
"Be sure you get that license. I don't want to be accused of preferential treatment."
"I will."
Feral concentrates on his cone for a moment. "So, why do you have a concealed weapon?"
"Piece of mind. I've been working with them since I was little." Naomi smiles a little. "Daddy wanted to make sure I could protect myself, and that I could use it properly."
"I see..."
"And, besides, it comes in handy when the bailiff in court is overpowered." Naomi says nonchalantly.
"Judges allow that?"
"Depends on the circumstances." Naomi then glances at her watch. "I'd better go. Have a judge that's a bit finicky."
"I wouldn't want to keep you, then." Feral starts to walk away. "Good luck, Naomi."
"Thanks." Naomi does a little wave. "I'll need it..."
***********************************************************
About ten minutes later, Naomi and Brendan were sitting in Judge Jackson's court, which was presiding over the Edwards case. Ross was there as well, looking through mounds of paperwork. Naomi sighs.
"Brendan, if you have an idea that might go over well, tell me." Naomi says.
"Sure." Brendan adjusts his glasses. "Nervous."
"Yeah...This can make or break politics in this city. I got to win this motion."
Brendan nods as the court clerk stands up. Afterwards, Judge Jackson enters the courtroom.
"All rise!" The clerk states, and all of the attorneys stand. "Court is now in session. The Honorable Judge Jackson presiding."
"Please be seated." Jackson settles behind the bench as everyone returns to their seats. "Ladies and gentlekats, I have read over your briefs. And, you have both made compelling arguments. But, I hesitate to make a snap judgment regarding this dismissal case due to the possible precedence it might set. However, I will hear both arguments today to see if a decision can be made. Ross?"
Ross rises from his chair and faces his platform. "Your Honor...as you can see from my motion, my client had his rights violated by the SWAT Kats. They, due to their link with the Deputy Mayor, are government agents, and must follow the law of search, seizure and arrest. And since they are government agents, they must follow the same rules the Enforcers have."
"Naomi?"
Naomi also rises from her chair. "Even if there is a link between the Deputy Mayor and the SWAT Kats, it was the Enforcers that made the arrest. They have made a case against Clarke on their own merits. Is it fair to punish the Enforcers for the outside actions of others? They have not asked for this 'help'."
"But they are benefiting from the SWAT Kats help. May I remind council of the term 'fruit of the poisonous tree'?"
"Which only applies if the Enforcers stepped beyond their bounds. Which they have not." Naomi retorts. "They don't even know about the actions of the SWAT Kats. They therefore cannot benefit from something they know nothing about."
"But, the SWAT Kats have been doing this before. It is common knowledge."
"Which I say again the Enforcers refuse to acknowledge! I further move that the Deputy Mayor was acting on her own, and was not in her official capacity. Therefore, the SWAT Kats are private katizens, not government agents."
Jackson raises an eyebrow at this. "You're saying the Deputy Mayor was not in her official capacity?"
"She has stepped beyond her role as a Deputy Mayor by conspiring with possible criminals." Naomi says. "Therefore, she cannot be in her elected role."
"Careful, counselor. You don't want to accuse the Deputy Mayor of a criminal act in open court." Jackson says. "But, I see your point."
"Your Honor..." Ross starts, but Jackson waves him off.
"Look...I haven't heard enough evidence to sway my decision either way." Jackson clasps his paws together. "So, I want a full hearing on this motion."
"The Katizens requests time to prepare for the hearing." Naomi speaks up.
"My client is entitled to a speedy trial." Ross protests.
"Please, counselor.... Your client is on bail. Any chance that this case might be dismissed would be in favor of him. And besides, you were the one that brought up this motion that can change how the SWAT Kats are viewed by the legal system." Jackson sighs. "Katizens request is granted. Court is in recess until a trial date is set."
Jackson slams the gavel down, and the court begins to clear out. Naomi sits back in her chair, exhausted.
"Nice save." Clarke says after a moment.
"Yeah...but Mau is still going to have a fit." Naomi sighs. "He wanted this off his desk. But, at least Judge Jackson didn't find in favor of Ross."
"So, what now?"
"You know what to do." Naomi smiles weakly. "Subpoenas, subpoenas, subpoenas."
Clarke nods. "Then we'd better serve the Deputy Mayor before Ross gets to her."
"Yeah...I'm going to enjoy this..."
"Umm..." Clarke adjusts his glasses. "Mind if I serve the Deputy Mayor?"
Naomi blinks. "You?"
"I *am* the city attorney. And, it might be best to have her being not so agitated."
"Meaning me, right?"
"Well..."
Naomi laughs. "Go ahead. It's going to be ugly in the courtroom, anyway."
"Good. So, I'll take the media subpoenas and you handle the Enforcer ones." Clarke says.
"Will do." Naomi picks up her briefcase. "Let's go!"
*****************************************************************
"Hey, Boss! I got that interview with Ling and a scoop or two..."
"Not now, Annie! We've just been hit with a subpoena!"
"Huh?"
Ann and Johnny step into a frantic newsroom as their boss darts around like he has his tail on fire. Ann chases after him.
"What do you mean we've been hit with a subpoena?" Ann finally catches up to him.
"The DA's office wants all our tapes, notes, and records that pertains to the Deputy Mayor, the SWAT Kats, and the Enforcers." The boss says, pausing to pick up a box. "And, they want it ASAP. Our collection of SWAT Kat material alone is over 500 tapes. 500!"
The boss moves off in a huff as Johnny walks up to Ann. "What's going on?"
"I'm guessing the DA's office is preparing for major battle." Ann crosses her arms. "And, if we got a subpoena, I bet the other stations got one, too! It's only a matter of time before this breaks for public consumption. This might be bad press for the SWAT Kats..."
"But, the SWAT Kats are well like by the public!"
"For now. And, as long as they were saving the day. But, the public is finicky." Ann says. "One false move, and they'll turn on you."
Johnny scratches his head. "True..."
"And, if the public feels that the SWAT Kats contributed to the current legal nightmare..."
"...We'll just see how forgiving and loyal the public can be..."
To be continued...